HONESDALE, PA - The Stourbridge Project can simply be a new place to work in Wayne County or it can be much, much more. At the heart of this endeavor is a community willing to build its future, support its professionals, and foster “home grown” businesses.

The Stourbridge Project is an award winning, community-based initiative supported by the Wayne County Commissioners, Wayne Economic Development Corporation, and Wayne Pike Workforce Alliance that has transformed the former Stourbridge Elementary School in Honesdale into a technology business incubator / accelerator with a coworking space and prototyping lab.

The business incubator is dedicated to nurturing business start-ups and supporting innovation to further the strong entrepreneurial culture in Wayne County. Coordinated business development services for all types of businesses and entrepreneurs compliment the high speed internet and the leasable office space.

Entrepreneurs can connect with experienced mentors, meet engaging educators, attend in person and online training programs, procure financial and other resources, and network with our business community.

Currently, there are 11 businesses located in the incubator and five businesses are enrolled in the Pocono Mountain Keystone Innovation Zone. Since 2016 more than 2300 individuals have attended 340 trainings or seminars. And since January 2020 there have been a minimum of 418 users in the Coworking Space, a critical resource for students, workers and job seekers during the pandemic.

The Coworking Space provides access to a beautifully renovated community space with high speed internet connectivity provided free of charge Monday through Friday, 8:30AM - 6:00PM. Individuals can bring their laptops to log in or they can access specialized design and other software at one of the available workstations.

There is a subscription available for those who need evening and weekend access. This is the perfect place for resident and visiting remote workers to meet their technology and networking needs. Stop by to try out the space, meet people or find a quiet corner to work. Honesdale has other Coworking Spaces and offices available both in and close to downtown. The Stourbridge Project staff will happily make a referral to nearby options if you don't find what you need at the Park St location.

The Prototyping Lab is where design, art, and manufacturing come together. There are three prototyping options available. Depending on the project, individuals can select from the professional quality Stratasys 3D printer, the Glowforge Laser Cutter and Etcher, or the Shop Bot CNC machine to complete their prototype or product. Group and one-to-one classes are available to train users on the equipment in the Lab. Reservations are available and definitely needed at certain times.

Residents and visitors are able to take advantage of the fabulous resources at the Stourbridge Project. Then, they can take a break and walk along the river to relax or meander a couple blocks to downtown Honesdale for a bite to eat and shopping.

For more information, visit stourbridgeproject.com, email Director@stourbridgeproject. com or call (570) 616-1177 or stop by in person for a tour: 646 Park St., Honesdale, PA.